June 24th, 2025 Updates On Two Massive Fires On Upper Parks Highway
Incident Management Team Takes Command of the Bear Creek Fire and Saint George Creek Fire BY 2025.BEARCREEKFIRE on JUNE 24, 2025 Jun...
Incident Management Team Takes Command of the Bear Creek Fire and Saint George Creek Fire
June 24, 2025
Bear Creek Fire: 26,047 acres
Saint George Creek Fire: 11,500 acres
As of this morning, the Alaska Complex Incident Management Team 1 has taken command of the Bear Creek Fire (#237) and the Saint George Creek Fire (#246). Additional firefighting crews and other resources are arriving. The Saint George Creek Fire and the Bonnifield Creek Fire (#208) burned together and will be referred to as the Saint George Creek Fire.
Structure protection is a primary concern. On the Bear Creek Fire, a night shift is in place to monitor and continue structure protection efforts. On the Saint George Creek Fire, new crews are arriving to continue protection and mop up of the fire-impacted areas. Assessments are in progress to determine the extent of damage to structures in both fire areas.
On the Bear Creek Fire, bulldozer line is being installed along the northern and eastern edges to confine the fire area to the west side of the Nenana River. The southern edge of the fire will require handline.
A wetting rain fell on the fire area on Monday, which has moderated fire behavior and slowed spread. Fire behavior consists primarily of creeping and smoldering in the duff layer and single-tree torching. Recent cloud cover and higher humidity over the next couple days will continue to dampen fire activity and allow firefighters safe access.
Evacuations remain in place and unchanged. For the most accurate information and maps, visit the Denali Borough website (https://www.denaliborough.org) or on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/denali.borough). You may also call or text the Denali Borough Fire Info line between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. at 907-378-7985.
Traffic control on the Parks Highway will remain in place for firefighter and motorist safety. Even though fire activity has decreased, there is still fire danger and heavy equipment working along the highway. Expect pilot car escorts and delays. Check conditions on the Alaska Department of Transportation website (https://511.alaska.gov).
If you fly, we can’t! A temporary flight restriction (NOTAM FDC #5/7295) is in place for the fire area to protect firefighter safety. Drones are prohibited in the area; any use of drones will ground aircraft and may endanger firefighters.
More information: For general information about fires in Alaska, call 907-356-5511.
